• David Hayden

    I'm a recent graduate of Oklahoma State University with a masters in Meat Science, who is passionate about animal agriculture and Ag Issues. I was Born and raised in the heart of Western Kentucky, with early involvement in the Ag industry on my family's commercial cow/calf and poultry operations. I later received my BS at Murray State University in Animal Science. This undergraduate experience only made my passion for Agriculture grow tremendously. I am passionate about consumer education and relaying the importance of family farming in the U.S. I believe consumers need to know where their food comes from, and the farmers that produce it. My family and I have dedicated our lives to producing safe, economical and quality products, in order to help meet the demands of the world's ever growing population. I hope you enjoy my blog because like many others, we, are Farming America!

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Pink Slime, Mechanically separated, LFTB……HUH????

Posted on March 29, 2012 by Farming America

I’m sure most of you have seen the recent exposeʹ ABC aired on the addition of “Pink slime” to ground beef  we purchase in the grocery store.  What exactly is pink slime? For the sake of this blog I’m going to refer to Pink Slime as LFTB (Lean Finely Textured Beef).

LFTB is a method of taking high fat beef trimmings and separating the actual protein from the fat.  This method involves the heating of beef trimmings and placing them in a centrifuge.  Once the centrifuge is engaged the lean protein that is present in the trimmings is separated from the fat.  The end result is LFTB of which is about 90% lean.  Nutritionally LFTB is no different from common ground beef found in the store.  There is however a texture difference.  This is where the “Finely Textured” portion of the term “LFTB” comes from.  Portions of LFTB are incorporated into some lean ground beef you may find in the store and beef patties in some foodservice venues as a binder to hold the patties together.

The LFTB product is then sent through a pathogen intervention step.  During this step LFTB is treated with ammonium hydroxide gas, where the product is sprayed with a puff of gas which alters the pH killing any harmful pathogens that may be present.   It’s important to know that ammonium hydroxide gas is a natural occurring gas found just about everywhere, from the soil in the ground to our very own body.  The human body produces ammonia to regulate the pH of the body.   This allows the body to breakdown proteins into the amino acids that we need nutritionally.  This link contains more information about the uses of ammonium hydroxide in food production along with links to the FDA and USDA’s views on the use ammonia in food.

This link  also shows how naturally occurring ammonium hydroxide is in many of the foods we regularly consume.

So what is Mechanically Separated Meat?

Mecanically Seperated Chicken Product, Myth: what chicken nuggets are made of. Fact: Must be declared on product labels

Mechanically separated meat is found predominately in the poultry industry and referred to as MSC (mechanically separated chicken).  This product is derived in a very different way than LFTB. MSC is a batter or paste like meat product that is produced by forcing bones with attached edible meat under high pressure through a sieve, which is a device designed to separate bone from edible meat tissue.  MSC is a process that has been around since the 60’s.  Today all products containing MSC MUST be declared on the product label.There are still many misconceptions out there about MSC.  One of the most common is that MSC is what chicken nuggets are made of.  This is false, in fact MSC shows up most often in hotdogs.  Other processed meats such as bologna also may contain MSC.  But, like I said earlier, it will be on the label.

Read more about the USDA definitions of MSC

So what’s the difference between LFTB and MSC?

The biggest difference between LFTB and MSC is the process.  While MSC is mechanically removing edible tissue that was left on the bone during fabrication, LFTB has no bone involved in its process.  With a combination of centrifugal force and heat LFTB is produced from all edible products.  The LFTB process allows processors to utilize all lean protein that is provided by that particular animal.

Are LFTB and MSC safe for consumption?

The answer is yes on both counts.  Either process is safe however; the biggest difference is that MSC has bone and marrow incorporated in the final product because of the process it is derived from.  The end product derived from producing LFTB is 90% pure beef and appx 10% edible fat.  This fat and beef is no different than what is in a steak, it’s just in a finely textured form.

Why do we produce such products?

With the growing population of the United States and the world, sustainability is the key to success and survival.  Recently we have already seen repercussions of the removal of LFTB from the industry.  Just this week 650 people were laid off from BPI (Beef Products Inc) an industry leading producer of LFTB.  According to Brownfield Ag News  the industry would need an additional 1.5 million head of cattle to meet the beef demand if LFTB was taken off the market.

If we are going to raise animals to feed the world shouldn’t we take full advantage of the protein that animal provides?

The following you-tube link is a good insight from the American Meat Institute on LFTB

http://youtu.be/GDiPjmsKeh8

For more info on LFTB and MSC check out these sites.

http://beefisbeef.com/

Interview with Joan Hegerfeld-Baker, SDSU Extension Food Safety Specialist

CSU PhD Student Travis Arp Talks the repercussions of “Pink Slime”

The Late Dr. Chris Raines Talks about the mystery of Meat Batter MSC

Filed under: Ag Proud, Agriculture, Beef, Consumer Education, Food, Food Science, LFTB, Meat science, MSC, Pink Slime, sustainability | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments »

National Ag Day

Posted on March 8, 2012 by Farming America

Some of my earliest memories as a child started on our family farm.  As long as I can remember the Ag industry has played an integral role in my life.  From baby bottle calves to commercial beef and poultry production my family has relied on our farm to put a roof over our heads and food on our table.

Many consumers today are displaced from the Ag industry directly, most by two or more generations.  Our industry is often under scrutiny by the media supported by many activist groups that want commercial agriculture shut down.  As a part of National Ag Day I want to spotlight what our industry brings to the table and where our food comes from.

Martin and Joan Hayden

Meet my parents Martin and Joan Hayden who own and operate Hayden Farms.  We are involved in commercial livestock production in the poultry and beef industries.  The media may portray us as a “factory farm” but we’re just an ordinary family like any other.  We started about 28 years ago with about 10 acres of tobacco and 30 head of cattle.

Slowly we’ve grown into an operation with about 200 brood cows in our cow-calf operation.  Later my parents started background feeding cattle before sending them to feed yards out west to be finished on grain.  After the tobacco buyout we tapped into the poultry industry.  We raise broilers for Perdue Farms at a rate of about 100,000 birds every 7 weeks.

The products that we, as a family, produce commercially can be found on the grocery store shelves or on a plate at your favorite restaurant.

Hayden Farms is just one of MANY commercial farms around the world working together to meet the needs of our consumers and ever growing world population.  Sustainability and environmental stewardship are a priority to most all farmers and ranchers.  Caring for the land and preserving it for future generations is a priority.

Farms just like these are not only supporting their own families through their livelihoods but have a hand in supporting every family through the food, shelter, fiber and fuel that they supply.

I am proud to be involved in Agriculture as I have been my entire life.  Next time you see a farmer or rancher, stop and thank them for the goods and services they provide, because without them we would be hungry, naked and homeless.

How will you celebrate National Ag Day?

 

Hayden Farms Poultry Houses

 

Filed under: Ag Proud, Agriculture, Consumer Education, Farming, Food, National Ag Day, Ranching, sustainability, Thank a Farmer | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments »

Whats your Major?

Posted on January 19, 2012 by Farming America

Finally, the big day has arrived! High school is just a chapter of the past, while college is the preface of the next one.  So many questions; do I live in the dorms, will I have a good roommate, or will he be weird?  In the heat of the moment these are some of the most important questions I found asking myself as I started the newest chapter of my life.

As my new roommate walked in, introductions were made and the first question from his mouth was, “what’s your major?”….. “Animal Science” I quickly replied, oh so you’re going to be a vet he said?  Nope, not a vet I murmured.  “Oh then what are you going to do?”

Now questions started wheeling through my head.  Animal Science sounds good and all, but what am I going to do?  Will I find a good job?

At this point I knew I had to get to work.  I had to figure out my options, and make a plan.  I needed to explore the possibilities throughout the agriculture industry.   The results were more than surprising! Around every corner there was agriculture!

A recent news article published through Yahoo News quickly grabbed my attention.  “College Majors That Are Useless” written by Terence Loose.  This article was intended to guide students away from degrees that in Mr. Loose’s mind were deemed “useless”.  Coming in at number one on the list was Agriculture, number four, Animal Science followed by number five, Agronomy.

Maybe Mr. Loose should have done a bit of research before writing this article.  I’m not sure if he is aware that agriculture is the industry that puts clothes on his back and food on his table.  Food doesn’t come from the grocery, and clothes don’t just come from the local mall.  Agriculture is the industry driving these stores that provide us with the everyday conveniences that we take for granted.  It’s obvious that Mr. Loose didn’t take advantage of the useful tool we call the internet before basing his information on one single source.

I concur that farms are becoming fewer in numbers and more technologically integrated, therefore decreasing the demand for farm hands and managers.  This however, is just the tip of the career iceberg for the agriculture industry.  Many individuals may choose the food industry or maybe even the financial realm of agriculture through Ag lending, Ag Business, Ag Sales or Ag Marketing.  I don’t think Mr. Loose understands that farming is not the only job in the agriculture world.  Though are farmers are ultimately the ones who put the food on our tables and clothes on our backs, someone has to market, sale and research these products.  Without agronomist, animal scientists and agriculturalist in general, we would find ourselves WITHOUT the cheapest and safest food supply in the world.  Whether its life on the family farm, working in the Ag business fields or directly in the food industry, agriculture degrees are far from useless and will continue to be utilized in almost every realm of industry in one way or another.

I challenge you Mr. Loose to check out the facebook fan page “I studied Agriculture and I have a Job” and take a look around at all of the possibilities the agriculture industry has to offer.

Here are a few other good sites if you’re feeling up to it.  I think you’ll find that thousands of jobs are posted weekly in the agriculture fields.

http://www.careersinfood.com/

http://www.agcareers.com/

Sold at ILoveFarmers.org

Filed under: Ag Proud, Agriculture, Agriculture Communicators, Consumer Education, Education, Farming, Food, Thank a Farmer | Tagged: , , , , , | 2 Comments »

HSUS, PETA who are they?

Posted on December 1, 2011 by Farming America

Since the introduction of production agriculture agrarians have been faced with those that oppose practical farming and ranching practices.  There are many organizations today that not only oppose modern production agriculture practices but are actually lobbying in DC against such practices.  Sadly many involved in such organizations often overlook the ramifications will come with dissolving such agriculture practices.

These organizations take many shapes and forms.  The Humane Society of the Unites States for example has been pulling the wool over consumer’s eyes for years now.  The following is a typical commercial that HSUS uses to portray to consumers that their donations are going to help these poor defenseless animals.  When we look at the reality behind HSUS we find that a mere 1% of the public’s donations actually went to local shelters in 2010.  The majority of money that the nonprofit organization takes in goes toward lobbying in DC to stop animal agricultural production.  There is however a website called www.humanewatch.org that tracks HSUS’s moves to keep the public informed on what they are really up to.  Yesterday in the USA Today I came across a full page ad that convey the reality of HSUS to the general public.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1Xh-tZrzwk

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) run along the same lines as HSUS however many of their tactics target our younger generations.  PETA usually takes much more extreme measures to get their point across, I.E. protests, naked walks, ect.  Five years ago PETA became a front runner opposing the slaughter of horses in the United States for human consumption.  Since horse slaughter federal funding was cut off the equine industry in this country has spiraled downward.  I’m sure that PETA members and spokesmen didn’t think that without horse slaughter, these animals would suffer from starvation, malnourishment, and inhumane slaughtering in Canada or Mexico.  These were just a few of the ramifications that were implicated after slaughter was halted.

Ad In the USA Today

On a lighter note, this week funding for slaughter was quietly reinstated and several plans for new slaughter facilities in the United States are now in place.  As controversial as it may be, PETA somewhat agrees with funding reinstatement.  PETA has come to realize the impacts the lack of slaughter has had across the industry.  This may be as surprising to many as it was to me but you can read the article here.

What are your thoughts on these organizations?

What are your thoughts on horse slaughter?

Filed under: Ag Proud, Agriculture, Consumer Education, Farming, Future of Agriculture, Ranching | Tagged: , , , , , | 2 Comments »

Food and Thanks

Posted on November 23, 2011 by Farming America

The leaves have fallen here in the Bluegrass, fall rains are attempting to cover the evidence of the hot and arid summer in Oklahoma and snow is beginning to cap the mountains in the west.  That’s right, the year is coming to an end and the holidays are right around the corner.  This week is one of my favorite times of year.  Thanksgiving is just a day away.

The American tradition of Thanksgiving dates back as early as 1621 to its earliest celebration in Plymouth Massachusetts.  The prompting of the first thanksgiving celebration was from a plentiful harvest.  It’s rather amazing how much this once simple celebration of a “good harvest” has evolved.

As an increasing number of consumers are becoming more and more displaced from agriculture, how do people view today’s version of Thanksgiving?  Is it the prequel to the infamous “Black Friday” events, is it a time to gather together with family and friends, or is it still a time for some to be truly thankful for all of the blessings in one’s life?

Growing up in a farm family Thanksgiving has a many meanings to me, including but not limited to my family and friends, and the opportunity to pursue a career in the agriculture field.  Though not every year is a plentiful one, there is always much to be thankful for.  This year was an interesting year for farming and ranching across the country.  While the Northeast had substantial amounts of rain that flooded many crops, and the southern plains experienced the worst heat and drought in history, the northern plains had an even balance of rain and sun that provided a generous harvest.

I’m sure that if you ask a farmer or rancher in any of these areas what they are thankful for, you will receive and array of answers, from the health and well being of their families while everything was lost due to drought or flood to the gratefulness of a successful bumper crop.

There is more on the table this Thanksgiving than just the turkey.  There are many issues overcome by some and many blessings given to others.  Overall there is always something to be thankful for.

Let us know what you are thankful for this Thanksgiving.  Also, don’t forget to thank those farmers and military personnel that have made this Thanksgiving and every Thanksgiving possible.

From the farming family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

Filed under: Ag Proud, Agriculture, Farming, Food, Food Thanks, Thank a Farmer, Thanksgiving | Tagged: , , , , , | 1 Comment »

Shutting Youth Out of Agriculture

Posted on October 25, 2011 by Farming America

Who needs an alarm when you have a mom hollering from down the hall at 5:30 in the morning to get your butt out of bed?  That’s what I had growing up in rural western Kentucky.  At 5:30 every morning cows, horses and chickens had to be fed before school.  Farming and ranching is a full time job because the animals don’t take vacation mom and dad would say.  This routine was just everyday life for me and my little brother.  Of course as any reluctant kid or teenager, some days were a struggle to get out of bed.  Lesson learned: Responsibility.

An extension agent friend recently pointed out some proposed changes to federal laws form the Department of Labor, limiting what
agricultural activities that youth under 18 and 16 can participate in.  After digging deeper I found that theseactivities are very broad and almost eliminate the ability for youth under 16 to work in most aspects of agriculture including but not limited to livestock facilities and grain operations.  These proposed changes will greatly hinder the family farm as we know it.

Understanding that many of the changes are based on farm related injuries to youth, many of these proposed changes will virtually eliminate youth involvement on family farming operations.  Farm safety is VERY important and should never be overlooked however, should we allow those individuals working for the Dept of Labor who have been displaced from agriculture make the decisions on what is safe or dangerous.  There are many aspects of agriculture that these individuals don’t understand.

Below I have pointed out just a few of the proposed changes that are being implemented.

3 proposed changes related to handling large livestock:

“1. Any activity with an intact (not castrated) male equine, porcine, or bovine older than six months should be prohibited.

2. Youth should be prohibited from engaging, or assisting, in animal husbandry practices that inflict pain upon the animal and/or are
likely to result in unpredictable animal behavior. These activities include, but would not be limited to, branding, breeding, dehorning, vaccinating, castrating, and treating sick or injured animals. Youth should also be precluded from handling animals with known dangerous behaviors.

3. Hired youth should be prohibited from herding animals on horseback.  The National Farm Medicine Center noted that past and recent data indicate a significant number of animal-related injuries occur to youth when they are involved in the activities cited in its second recommendation. It also reports that ‘‘[h]orseback herding requires a person to monitor and anticipate the behaviors of two (large) animals simultaneously. No youth development data exists to suggest youth younger than 16 years have the cognitive ability to handle this responsibility.’’ A study of worker’s compensation data concerning livestock-handling injuries in Colorado found that        ‘‘[R]iding horseback, sorting/penning cattle and livestock handling equipment represented higher proportions of livestock-handling injuries among cattle/livestock raisers and cattle dealers’’” Pg 24 The following changes are aimed at youth under the age of 18 and would prohibit them from working in many places that rural youth currently have summer jobs.

“The NIOSH Report recommends that the Department establish a new nonagricultural HO prohibiting the employment of youth under 18 years of age in the farm-product raw materials wholesale trade industry….Work in this industry presents a wide range of hazards, including grain entrapments, rail and vehicle accidents, and contact with large animals….. Grain and Field Beans, covers establishments primarily engaged in the buying and/or marketing of grain (such as corn, wheat, oats, barley, and unpolished rice); dry beans; soy beans, and other inedible beans. Also included in SIC 5153 are country grain elevators primarily engaged in buying or receiving grain from farmers, as well as terminal elevators and other merchants marketing grain. SIC 5154,…Livestock, covers establishments primarily engaged in buying and/or marketing cattle, hogs, sheep, and goats. Also included in SIC 5154 are establishments that operate livestock auction markets”

To read the proposed changes in their entirety click here.

I urge everyone to take part in submitting comments on this matter.  The link below will direct you to the site to make this possible.

http://www.regulations.gov/#!submitComment;D=WHD-2011-0001-0001

 

Working on a farm or ranch does pose its risks, but those risks aren’t limited to age.  Farm safety should never be taken lightly.  But
should the government be the ones to say what we can or can’t do on the farm or ranch?  What are your thoughts?

Filed under: Ag Proud, Agriculture, Beef, Consumer Education, Farming, Livestock, Ranching | Tagged: , , , , , , , | 2 Comments »

A great new eating experience!

Posted on September 26, 2011 by Farming America
Myself and friend Katie Vaz
Traveling around the country with my job allows for some great and unique dining experiences. Last night I was fortunate enough to find one of those unique experiences right here in Stillwater Oklahoma. The Tokyo Pot is a place that combines both a unique way of dining with a great relaxing atmosphere. And what better way than to experience these new places than with great friends!
Friends Rebecca Bailey and Jake Gankofskie

Shabu shabu is a Japanese variant of hot pot.  This unique and savory way of combining broth with thinly sliced meat and vegetables.  Beef is typically the number one protein source when cooking shabu shabu however, seafood, chicken and pork are also substituted. Wagyu (kobe) beef is most commonly used for this dish, but since the Tokyo Pot was out of Kobe I settled with the USDA Prime Ribeye slices.

The dish is prepared by submerging the thin cut slices of meat or vegetable in a pot of boiling kelp based broth and swishing it back and
forth a few times.   The familiar swishing sound is where shabu shabu gets its name, which directly translates to “swish-swish”.   After all protein and vegetables are cooked the broth is usually added to steamed white rice to be
eaten as a soup.
Just another way of enjoying the beef we love so much!

Filed under: Beef, Consumer Education, Food, Food Science, Food Thanks, Heart health, I heart Beef, Uncategorized | Tagged: , , , , | 2 Comments »

RSOF…….HUH????

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Farming America

Away from home in a foreign country, unfamiliar surroundings, out of touch with family and friends, and at many times finding yourself tired and VERY hungry.  This may not sound too familiar to many, but to others who have been fighting for our freedoms it may hit home a little harder.  That’s what many Americans are faced with as rations are cut and their trip overseas is seemingly a never-ending one.  These soldiers may include family, friends, or even people we may have never met, however they are all over fighting for us, and everything that the United States of America stands for.  These are the individuals that are defending our freedoms so that we can wake up every morning and go to work, raise our kids or just take the day off.

 I was recently introduced to a group on Oklahoma State’s campus called the Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT) who have made it their goal to give back to these men and women who risk their lives for us every day. 

As many OSU fans and students know, Friday’s during football season is “orange Friday” it’s an unspoken rule to wear orange EVERY Friday during this time.  The OSU ACT is challenging this unspoken rule with a campaign called “Red Shirt Orange Friday”.  The campaign was designed to show support for our troops by purchasing a red shirt from ACT (and of course wearing them on Friday) of which all proceeds go toward care packages that will be sent to our troops overseas. Why red you my ask? Red is the color that stands for “Remembering everyone Deployed”

This coming week is the last week to support this cause by ordering shirts.  You can follow the link below to place an order and show your support for those who are fighting for our freedoms. 

Read more about Red Shirt Orange Friday by following the link below. Don’t forget to show your support for our troops by supporting this GREAT cause!

http://redshirtorangefriday.com/

Filed under: Agriculture Communicators, Education, Oklahoma State, Red Shirt Orange Friday, Support out Troops, Troops | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Going Green!

Posted on February 28, 2011 by Farming America

Orange, crimson, pink, red, purple, blue, and yellow are just a few of the random colors I’ve seen this morning throughout the airport.  I’m sure if all of these colors were mixed together the outcome would be some sort of nasty brown, but what do all of these random colors have in common?  Well they all stand for something, a school, football team, basketball team, cancer awareness, and various organizations.  The common factor of each of these colors is the person wearing or displaying them.  Each of these individuals are showing a since of pride while displaying these colors publicly.  That’s one of the beauties of living in the United States.  We have the freedom to choose what causes, schools or organizations we support. 

GREEN! That’s the new color of the week!  Wednesday March 9th is the second annual “Wear Green in Support of Agriculture Day”.  Why not show support for one of the only industries in the nation that affects EVERYONE.  Though not directly, the agriculture industry indirectly involves everyone in the world.  Those directly involved are the ones that put food on our tables and clothes on our backs.  This is not only a great way to support those who strive to provide a plentiful food supply, but also promote our industry and educate consumers of the importance of what the industry provides.  The agriculture industry is the greenest in the world!  Agrarians understand the importance in preserving the land and natural resources for generations to come.  Without these resources the agriculture industry would be nonexistent. 

This movement was started a year ago by two young agrarians, Rachel Erickson from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and Barrett Smith from Kansas State University, via Facebook with hopes of this movement growing tremendously from last year’s numbers.  Though we should strive to support and promote our industry every day, March 9th is a day to all work together as a whole to promote and educate.  The agriculture industry is not just an industry; it’s a way of life.

Will you be wearing green on March 9th?

How else do you work to promote and educate consumers about our industry? 

Filed under: Ag Proud, Agriculture, Beef, Consumer Education, Education, Farming, Food, Green for Agriculture, Livestock, Ranching | Tagged: , , , , | 3 Comments »

FFA the Future of Agriculture

Posted on February 25, 2011 by Farming America

You know that feeling when you’ve been slapped in the face knocked off your high horse or just completely had the wind knocked out of you.  That moment when you were so shocked, blindsided or completely off guard that you didn’t know if you were just insulted or made fun of?  I vividly remember experiencing these emotions several years ago while preparing for my annual trip to Indianapolis for the National FFA Convention.  A fellow classmate at Murray State University had been inquiring about my upcoming trip. Along with the typical questions she had been asking, there was one, this was the one that left me in total and complete disbelief. “What does FFA stand for?” My immediate response was, Future Farmers of America.  Through her laughter she said, “Really? I always thought that was just some kind of joke?” This was the moment, the feelings I mentioned earlier took over.  I had a long time reflect on the conversation while driving to the convention.  It was to my knowledge that what FFA is and stands for was a common understanding.  This was a life changing moment.  I finally understood the importance of advocacy in the Ag industry.   

 In lieu of National FFA week, with some inspiration from my future sister in-law Megan McKinney (past Ky state officer) I found it appropriate to dedicate a post about FFA.  I’d like to start out with the basics about FFA for those who may not understand what type of organization it is. 

FFA stands for the Future Farmers of America and was started by a group of young farmers in 1928.  Their mission was to prepare future generations for the challenges of feeding a growing population. They taught the younger generation that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting– it’s a science,  a business and an art.  Since 1928 FFA has escalated into one of the largest youth organizations in the world with over 520,000 members nationwide.  This organization has touched and shaped many young people since its birth, myself being one.

FFA was part of my life throughout my high school career and taught me to pursue my dreams and goals within the agricultural industries, without reservation.  The responsibility and dedication that FFA taught me is priceless.  I would not be where I am in my career without the guidance of the FFA program.  I wanted another’s perspective on the impacts of FFA, so I called upon past Kentucky State FFA officer, Megan McKinney, to answer some common questions.

Why is FFA important?

Extending education to youth through FFA and The National FFA Organization is essential to the future of agriculture.  FFA promotes extensive involvement and education in all fields of agriculture, from research and biotechnology to livestock genetics, reproduction and nutrition. The largest youth organization with over 500,000 members in the US, including Puerto Rico and Guam, encourages premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agriculture education. Only 27 percent of members either live or have lived on a farm. The remaining 73 percent have chosen to join in order to gain valuable life lessons, professional skills, and hands on experience.  Unfortunately, a large portion of Americans have minimal knowledge within the agricultural realm; this is the reason we need to continue to promote the growth of FFA.  In return we expect these students will enter into the work force as agriculture activists in some way.

How has FFA shaped you into the person you are today?

Growing up as a daughter of an agricultural educator, I was first introduced to FFA at young age and have witnessed the impact it has had on several individuals. I anticipated the moment I could walk into the FFA office and pay my dues; little did I know what effects that first 15 dollars would have on my life. Looking back, almost 8 years later, I reminisce on the days of the measly little freshman walking into the FFA office and compare it to the 21 year old college student I see in the mirror every morning.  I would definitely not be the person I am today without the experiences, support, successes and failures that I gained through FFA.  As a once passive, soft spoken and intimidated teenager, I would have never imagined that I would become a leader of any sort. This leadership role required being comfortable speaking in front of a crowd, which was certainly not a trait I was born with. However it wasn’t long before I realized a change, thanks to the possibilities that FFA offered. I would have never imagined being a chapter or regional officer, let alone a State Officer. My advisors were beside me every step of the way; encouraging and helping me surpass my limits. FFA taught me to never be satisfied and never settle; there was always more that could be done to achieve my success. The blue corduroy jacket FFA, has whipped me into the shape I’m in today.  It has given me the confidence to rise above no matter how hard the task.  Through FFA I have gained priceless knowledge and life skills to reach even the highest of goals. 

 

What do you know about FFA?

What did you gain from your involvement in this great organization?

Filed under: Agriculture, Consumer Education, Education, Farming, FFA, Food, Future of Agriculture, Livestock, Ranching, Uncategorized | Tagged: , , , , , , , | 1 Comment »

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